- Volts. Electricians use volts to describe the force of an electric current, measured in numbers. …
- Circuit. A circuit is a loop of electrical flow. …
- Semiconductor. …
- Energy-saving devices. …
- Joule. …
- Watts. …
- Wiring. …
- Circuit breakers.
Electrical work is serious business. Finding a business you can rely on to handle your home’s electrical needs is crucial because doing so will ensure the safety of you and your family. There are numerous components that make up your house, and there are numerous electrical terms as well. It can be confusing!.
Electrician Terms & Definitions: Hand Tools
Why is it important to know basic electrician terms?
It’s critical to understand fundamental electrical terminology so you can communicate with experts in your field and other electricians. Understanding the meaning of the basic electrical terms that electricians frequently use while working will help you to follow instructions, such as using the proper techniques and tools, with greater accuracy.
What are electrician terms?
Professionals in the field of electricity use terminology known as electrician terms. Terms used by electricians may refer to methods, equipment, or fundamentals of electrical work. Since electricians are typically familiar with the majority of electrical terminology, using electrician terms while working allows professionals to communicate effectively.
16 electrician terms
Here are 16 terms that electricians use while working:
1. Volts
Volts are a unit of measurement used by electricians to describe the force of an electric current. According to their definition, a volt is the unit of potential electrical power between two points of conduction where an electric current flows. Low voltage wiring systems, such as doorbells, are those that have voltage below 110 volts. Anything above 1,000 volts is considered high voltage, such as turning on or off a sizable heating appliance.
2. Circuit
A circuit is a loop of electrical flow. Electricians can only use electricity when the circuit is flowing. Air conditioners and light fixtures are typical circuit-based devices. When the circuit does not have a full loop, as if something is preventing the loop from being a complete circle, this is known as a short circuit. When someone gets an electric shock, it means they participated in the circuit’s electrical current flow.
3. Semiconductor
Semiconductors are an important element of circuits. They involve a material that can conduct electricity between a metal and an insulator. Silicone-based semiconductor devices that help conduct electricity are found inside circuits.
4. Energy-saving devices
When using equipment to provide lighting, heating, and cooling, electricians use energy-saving devices to efficiently save and store energy. Typically, normal appliances use energy while not in use. Since appliances only consume a significant amount of energy when they are actively being used, the use of energy-saving devices can help customers save money and extend the life of their appliances.
5. Joule
The International System of Units uses the joule as a measure of energy. Within one meter, it describes the amount of energy that is transferred from one object to another. One joule, for instance, is the amount of energy needed to lift a object one meter off the ground.
6. Watts
Electricians measure the rate of an energy transfer using watts. It counts how many joules can be converted into power each second. A five-watt light bulb, for instance, can convert five joules of electrical energy into light power every second. More energy is produced per second when an appliance is powered by a higher wattage.
7. Wiring
Switches and appliances are powered by wiring throughout a building. Electrical currents are carried by wiring from one end of the wire to the other. Here are several types of wiring used by electricians:
8. Circuit breakers
Circuit breakers are tools that protect circuits from too much electrical power. To control the amount of electricity flowing through a circuit, electricians install circuit breakers throughout buildings. Typically, breakers determine the highest flow that a device is capable of handling.
9. Electricity meter
Electricians can use electricity meters to gauge a building’s energy consumption. Meters typically display the amount of electrically powered equipment present in a space. Because the meter’s lines turn clockwise as a building consumes more energy, the device resembles a clock.
10. Conduit
Electrical wires’ exterior covering, known as conduits, keeps the wires hidden. They comprise several materials, like steel or plastic. Electricians use conduits for added safety against electrical shocks. Conduits also protect wiring against natural fraying or weather-related issues.
11. Gauge
To determine the size of the conduit that is required for the wire, gauges measure the diameter of the wiring. Typically, the gauges of wiring are 10, 12 or 14. Electrical professionals measure gauge and diameter inversely, so as a wire’s gauge increases, its diameter decreases.
12. Surge protector
Surge protectors are a device that shields electrical equipment from sporadic voltage spikes. An appliance may become damaged or the outlet it is plugged into if it receives too much voltage. Surge protectors regulate voltages and block any abnormally high voltages. Most power strips with outlets come with surge protectors already installed.
13. Switches
Switches are equipment that regulate the flow of electricity to outlets and appliances. Electricians install switches that can turn on and off. When an electrician flips a switch on, energy is delivered to the appliance; conversely, if a switch is off, the energy flow is interrupted. For instance, an energy flow to a light bulb is stopped when a light switch is turned off.
14. Outlets
By connecting appliances to the electrical grid, electrical outlets, also referred to as sockets and plugs, enable electricity to reach appliances. The outlet serves as a conduit between the electrical source and the appliance, delivering electricity to the latter when it needs it to function.
15. Amp
The term “amperage,” also known as “amp,” refers to the measurement of the total number of electrons flowing through a circuit in relation to the force that they are up against. When writing amps, electricians add the letter A after the number; for instance, 12A for a vacuum’s 12 amps.
16. Load center
The load center is a building’s main power supply. All circuits that conduct electricity originate from a load center. Circuit breakers are typically installed by electricians in a load center to monitor and control the amount of electricity the load center emits.
FAQ
What are the basic electricity terms?
CURRENT – Movement of electricity along a conductor. Current is measured in amperes. The movement of electrons from one atom to another in a conductor is known as current flow. An electrical sine wave that alternates between zero and a positive peak, zero and a negative peak, and zero again is said to cycle.
What are 5 things electricians do?
- Read technical and wiring diagrams, including blueprints.
- Install systems for control and lighting systems.
- Inspect electrical systems.
- Troubleshoot & repair electrical malfunctions.
- Study and abide by local and state laws based on the national electrical code.
What are the basic electrical terms that you can still remember?
Terminology for Wiring An electrical wire is a particular kind of conductor, which is a substance that moves electricity. When it comes to household wiring, the conductor is typically made of solid metal conductors or stranded wire and is either copper, aluminum, or aluminum that has been covered in copper.
